A warning has been issues about 'opportunistic crime' as clocks go forward this week. Co-op Insurance is warning the general public to be more diligent when it comes to home security as the clocks get set to ‘spring’ forward this weekend (Sunday 27 March),
The company analysed data from November 2016 to August 2021 and found that 46% of claims for home thefts occurred during the summer months - which is 10% more than in winter months.
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Opportunistic crimes, which are committed without planning- such as theft of bikes and parcels- account for nearly half (42%) of claims during the summer months. They tend to happen when windows and doors are left open, or when people are out in their gardens.
The data also showed that in 2021, Tuesday was most common day for thefts to occur. Last year, almost a fifth of burglaries (18%) between March and October took place on a Tuesday, making it the day for homeowners to be on their guard.
Additionally, Co-op Insurance said that one in 10 thefts were due to residents being ‘distracted’ by thieves posing as bogus callers. The number of thefts that take place due to homeowners being ‘distracted’ also increased to one in ten (10%) when the clocks go forward.
Distraction or deception break-ins occur when thieves mislead people by posing as bogus callers to gain access to properties.
Andrew Nevitt, Head of Co-op Home Insurance, said: “The return of brighter mornings and longer days mean we’re often excited at the increased opportunities to get out and about. But it’s important that homeowners recognise that the threat of burglary is greater than ever, particularly as many of us are returning to our places of work, especially during the mid-week period.
“It’s important to remind ourselves of basic security measures and to remove any window of opportunity for thefts and burglaries to take place.”
Below are Co-op Insurance’s home security tips:
- Keep windows and doors locked and make sure all windows are fitted with key operated window locks
- Don’t leave keys in clear sight or within reach of a letterbox
- Make sure your lights come on if you’re going to be away from home – look into investing in home technology apps or smart speakers that can do this
- Take photos of your valuables and security mark them with your postcode and house number
- Don’t allow people you don’t know to gain access without checking their ID – call their office if you’re not sure if they’re genuine
- Check in on vulnerable neighbours
- If you see any suspicious activity on your road, street or neighbourhood, report it immediately
- Be mindful of what you post on social media about your whereabouts
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